Overview

Space

Collections

Links

The DMZ is one of Canada’s largest business incubators for emerging tech startups. The top ranked university-based incubator in North America and third in the world, it helps startups succeed by connecting them with customers, advisors, influencers and other entrepreneurs.

It’s a space and community that encourages, supports and fosters new technologies that transform lives and businesses.

The DMZ is open to all startups that meet its criteria — no Ryerson affiliation is required. Startups must: be addressing an important economic or social problem, make innovative use of technology, and have a prototype (at minimum) that they are already in the market with or are ready to launch. At that stage, the DMZ can help fast-track their growth through tailored connections, mentorship, dedicated workspace and programming.

Unlike virtual programs that just provide guidance and advice, the DMZ is both a space and a community for startups where powerful connections are forged. Our network is vast and diverse, and we leverage it to provide unparalleled opportunities for mentorship, education, investment and growth. Our location in the heart of downtown Toronto and strong industry connections are ideal for startups whose target markets are national and international businesses or who can channel their products to market through corporate partners.

Photo taken by Keifer Wiseman.

Common Space

The DMZ common space is a multi purpose room that encourages entrepreneurs, staff, and partners to connect and collaborate. The space features a state of the art video wall, daily breakfast and a floor to ceiling window that overlooks the core of downtown Toronto.

The space is often used as a venue that puts entrepreneurs in front of the right people who can help fuel their success. From investor nights to competitions to pitch sessions, entrepreneurs are given the chance to shine on the DMZ's center stage.

Right, Ronen from RightBlue Labs, a startup innovating in the sports industry, pitches to judges during the The ‘Next Big Idea in Sport’ competition for a chance to win $50,000.

Photo taken by Clifton Li.

Photo taken by Clifton Li.

Ryerson Futures

Investing in the growth of high-potential and highly scalable startups, Ryerson Futures Inc. (RFI) – the accelerator program affiliated with the DMZ – occupies an open space that also holds three meeting rooms and a lounge that overlooks the core of downtown Toronto.

Photo taken by Clifton Li.

3rd Floor

The third floor at the DMZ is one of four that provides a dedicated workspace for startups and access to resources including a fully equipped meeting room, event space, private phone rooms, technology and more.

Photo taken by Philip Castleton.

Photo taken by Philip Castleton.

Photo taken by Philip Castleton.

Fishbowl Room

With cutting-edge technology, the DMZ fishbowl room is a space for major announcements, international dignitaries, town halls, lectures, workshops and large meetings.

Photo taken by Clifton Li.

Games Room

The DMZ has a room dedicated for entrepreneurs and staff members to take active breaks and engage in a game of ping pong, foosball or air hockey.